Nyungwe National Park in south-western Rwanda protects one of the oldest montane forests in Africa. More than 300 bird species are recorded, including over two dozen Albertine Rift endemics such as the Rwenzori turaco, red-collared babbler, regal sunbird and Rwenzori double-collared sunbird. The best birding is along the main road through the forest and on the trails near Uwinka and Gisakura.
Key takeaways
- More than 300 bird species.
- Over two dozen Albertine Rift endemics.
- Easy birding along the main road.
- Combine with chimps and the canopy walk.
Nyungwe covers about 1,000 km² of mountain rainforest and bamboo. Its high altitude and old forest support birds found only in the Albertine Rift, which runs through Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi and Congo.
Key species
- Rwenzori turaco, colourful and noisy.
- Red-collared mountain babbler, which moves in groups.
- Regal sunbird and Rwenzori double-collared sunbird.
- Handsome francolin, often seen on the road at dawn.
- Grauer’s warbler and Rwenzori batis.
- Albertine owlet, rare and hard to find.
Where to bird
- The main road through the forest gives wide views of the canopy.
- Uwinka, with trails and the canopy walk.
- Gisakura, with forest edge and tea estate birding.
- Kamiranzovu Swamp, for swamp specialists.
When to go
The drier months, June to August and December to February, make trails easier. Birding is good all year, and many species breed in the wetter months.
Good to know
- Bring rain gear; Nyungwe is very wet.
- Mornings are misty and cool.
- A local birding guide is recommended.
- Combine with chimpanzees in Nyungwe and the canopy walk.
Who it suits
Nyungwe suits birders looking for Albertine Rift endemics, photographers and anyone who loves forests. It is also a great stop for travellers combining gorillas with forest activities.
A typical birding day
Start on the road at dawn, when birds are active along the forest edge. Walk a trail at Uwinka in the morning, then rest at your lodge. In the late afternoon, bird the tea estates and forest edges near Gisakura.
Beyond birds
Nyungwe is also one of the richest primate forests in Africa, with 13 species including chimpanzees, a huge troop of Rwenzori black-and-white colobus, L’Hoest’s monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys. Waterfalls, orchids and giant tree ferns line the trails. Many birders find that a few days in Nyungwe give them some of the most varied wildlife experiences in East Africa.
Tea estates
The Gisakura tea estate on the forest edge is a pleasant place to bird in the late afternoon, with sunbirds, waxbills and raptors often seen over the fields.
Where to stay
Stay at Gisakura, with lodges and a guesthouse near the tea estate, or near Uwinka. The luxury One&Only Nyungwe House sits on the edge of the tea plantation.
Target birds
- Rwenzori turaco
- Red-collared mountain babbler
- Regal sunbird
- Rwenzori double-collared sunbird
- Handsome francolin
- Grauer’s warbler
- Rwenzori batis
- Strange weaver
- Albertine owlet
- Kungwe apalis
Tips
Nyungwe is often misty and wet. Start early, wear waterproofs and be patient.
Nyungwe’s habitats
Nyungwe covers about 1,000 km² of montane forest, bamboo and swamp at altitudes from about 1,600 to nearly 3,000 metres. It is one of the oldest forests in Africa, and like Bwindi, it survived the dry periods of the ice ages, which is why it is so rich in endemic species. Its rivers feed both the Congo and the Nile, and the park is believed to contain one of the most distant sources of the Nile. For birders, the mix of habitats means a long list of species in a short time, from forest canopy birds to swamp specialists at Kamiranzovu.
Getting there
Nyungwe is about five to six hours by road from Kigali, or about two hours from Lake Kivu. The main road through the park is one of the best birding routes in Rwanda.
Who it suits
Serious birders chasing Albertine Rift endemics, photographers and anyone who loves forest walks. Non-birders will enjoy the chimps, colobus, waterfalls and the canopy walk, so Nyungwe works well for mixed groups.
Plan it
Nyungwe is included in our 3-day Nyungwe chimpanzees and canopy walk and 8 days in Rwanda’s forests, lakes and savannah.
Frequently asked questions
How many endemics can I see in Nyungwe?
Many birders see a good number with a specialist guide.
Is Nyungwe good for non-birders?
Yes, with chimps, monkeys and the canopy walk.
How far is Nyungwe from Kigali?
About 5–6 hours by road.
Can I bird from the road?
Yes, the main road is one of the best birding spots.
Is the canopy walk good for birding?
Yes. It puts you at eye level with canopy birds, although the best birding is usually early on the road and trails.
How many days should I spend birding in Nyungwe?
At least two full days for a good selection of endemics.
Do I need a permit for birding in Nyungwe?
Guided birding walks are booked through the park; we arrange them with your other activities.
Is the canopy walk good for birds?
It gives eye-level views of canopy birds, though the road at dawn is usually more productive.
Written by our Kampala-based planners and guides, who arrange these trips every season. Prices and rules are checked before every quote.
